Focusrite ISA Two Dual-Channel Microphone Preamplifier

Record two channels with a stunning 80 dB of clean Focusrite gain with the ISA Two microphone preamp, featuring high-end Lundahl LL1538 transformers.

$899.99

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Focusrite Platinum Penta Compressor/Limiter Microphone Preamp

No longer available at zZounds
zZounds Gear Experts Say...
Class A mic pres. Stereo path.

Every dynamics processor you'll ever need, squeezed into one 2U rackmountable unit, the Penta will go down in your recording history as one of the best investments you ever made.

Designed principally as an affordable, high specification Stereo Analog Pre-set Compressor, the Platinum Penta provides a multiple of essential analog processing elements in a sturdy 2U 19 in. rackmount case. The unit features an entirely editable pre-set compressor offering a range of professionally compiled compression settings depending on the sound required or instrument involved. Its dynamic response can add a soft or hard knee shape to the compressor curve, and combined with TubeTran technology can emulate VCA, optical, and valve compressor sounds.

The unit also features the same discrete transistor mic-pre as the award winning VoiceMaster. Because the PENTA includes a single mic-pre, as well as full stereo circuitry, it's just as ideal for recording a mono signal as for compressing the final stereo mix. So the PENTA offers the project studio owner the opportunity to both track and mix-down adding the "Focusrite signature sound" to their future productions at an outrageously affordable price.

Features
Stereo signal path throughout

Focusrite Class A Platinum Mic-pre (with Phantom Power)

Direct inputs on the front fascia for instruments (e.g. guitar) and microphone (Both XLR and Jack)

Preset Compressor (16 pre-sets - all entirely editable)

Compressor features TubeTranÐTechnology (More warmth, read more less warmth, you choose)

Stereo Image Width Controller

A high level of metering to ensure optimum levels

Optional 24-bit/96kHz digital A/D output stage for state-of-the-art digital connectivity.
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Specifications

Inputs and Outputs

All inputs and outputs are TRS Jacks and accept unbalanced (-10dBu) and balanced (+4dBv) signals Mic Gain: 0dB to 60dB

Line Gain: -10dB to +10dB

Instrument Gain:

- 0dB to +20dB
- Impedance: >10kOhms

Compressor

Each individual preset is entirely editable. Compression Gain: -10dB to+10dB

Make up Gain: -10 to +10dB

Overload

+20dB

Performance Specifications

Frequency Response Bypass In: -1dB down at 20Hz and 200kHz

Compressor In: -2dB down at 20Hz and 200kHz

THD

Measured with input signal frequency of 1kHz at 20dBu level and 20Hz /22kHz bandpass filter. Bypass In: 0.0008%

With compressor in, 6db of compression and 6dB of makeup gain: 0.001%

Noise

Measured with 20Hz/22kHz bandpass filter. Bypass In: -92dBu

Compressor In

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 310-322-5500
Web: https://support.focusrite.com/

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. (24 ratings)
Submitted April 18, 2007 by a customer from hotmail.com

"the roadie's view of Platinum Penta"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
very good compressor, sold a rack full of them on eBay. lasted over 300 gigs, and arround 4000 miles. used loads. selling them because I can now get the same features on a digital mixer. i think they are great for anologue mixers but now it just "an extra box" "an extra insert loom". because i can get the same quality over digital and less space
Sound
Very good sound proccessing, like the "Tube Sound" feature. Makes a massive difference for a Clavi.
Features
Enjoyed the features, Didn't like having to select different instruments every power on. when you have a rack full of them it can be quite hard.
Ease of Use
easy Interface, however the controlls for adjusting the compression dont have time markers on it, it is just a load of dots
Quality
one of the best high-end compressors arround
Value
good, but could have had a built in Deesser or expander
Manufacturer Support
good instruction manual, never had to upgrade, repair or contact Focusrite
The Wow Factor
s'nice and sheek but doesnt look as good as the newer stuff.

Musical Background:

Sound Engineer

Musical Style:

Rock
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